Timbers sign midfielder Rodrigo Lopez

The Portland Timbers signed midfielder Rodrigo Lopez as they begin looking toward the United Soccer League First Division playoffs, the team announced Wednesday.

Lopez, 22, was a guest player for the Timbers during their exhibition game with Burnley of the English Premier League in July and scored in the 2-2 tie. Lopez was signed for the remainder of the season, bringing the Timbers' roster to 25 players.

The Timbers are in first place in the USL First Division and can clinch a playoff spot with a win against Miami on Saturday night at PGE Park. The roster-freeze deadline is Aug. 28.

Though born in Mexico, Lopez grew up in California. He spent 18 months in the youth academy of Mexican team Chivas de Guadalajara before signing with Chivas USA of Major League Soccer in 2005 at the age of 18. He spent three seasons with Chivas USA, appearing in eight games with the first team and recording one assist.

He played last season with Queretaro of the Mexican Primera Division. His career also includes time with the U.S. U-20 national team in 2006.